Polypyrrole-Tungsten Oxide Nanocomposite Fabrication through Laser-Based Techniques for an Ammonia Sensor: Achieving Room Temperature Operation

A highly sensitive ammonia-gas sensor based on a tungsten trioxide and polypyrrole (WO /PPy) nanocomposite synthesized using pulsed-laser deposition (PLD) and matrix-assisted pulsed-laser evaporation (MAPLE) is presented in this study. The WO /PPy nanocomposite is prepared through a layer-by-layer alternate deposition of the PPy thin layer on the WO mesoporous layer. Extensive characterization using X-ray diffraction, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and water contact angle are carried out on the as-prepared layers. The gas-sensing properties of the WO /PPy nanocomposite layers are systematically investigated upon exposure to ammonia gas. The results demonstrate that the WO /PPy nanocomposite sensor exhibits a lower detection limit, higher response, faster response/recovery time, and exceptional repeatability compared to the pure PPy and WO counterparts. The significant improvement in gas-sensing properties observed in the WO /PPy nanocomposite layer can be attributed to the distinctive interactions occurring at the p-n heterojunction established between the n-type WO and p-type PPy. Additionally, the enhanced surface area of the WO /PPy nanocomposite, achieved through the PLD and MAPLE synthesis techniques, contributes to its exceptional gas-sensing performance.